Typhoid Vaccination for International Travel
What Is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid fever, or typhoid, spreads through contaminated food or water. Caused by Salmonella typhi, typhoid fever is an acute illness infecting about 21.5 million people worldwide.
Typhoid fever can be fatal in up to 10% of reported cases. There has been an increase in the number of drug-resistant strains of Salmonella typhi since 1989. Unfortunately, drug resistance is spreading worldwide due to overcrowding, poor sanitation, inadequate control of infections and extensive international travel, trade and population movements.
Humans are the sole hosts of the bacteria which is shed in feces from 6 weeks to 3 months after infection. Most common symptoms include fever, anorexia, abdominal discomfort and headaches.
What Is the Typhoid Fever Vaccine?
There are two vaccines available to prevent typhoid fever:
- Typhoid Vaccine Live Oral – Also known as ‘typhoid pills’, the vaccine is made from attenuated live bacteria. The vaccine provides up to five years’ protection and is approved for use in individuals over six-years-old. It is taken orally over the course of four doses.
- Typhoid Vaccine (Injectable) – Made from inactive bacteria, the injectable typhoid vaccine provides protection for up to two years. This vaccine is approved for use in individuals over two-years-old.
The risk of either typhoid vaccination causing serious harm is rare and reactions to either vaccine are generally mild.
Do I Need a Typhoid Vaccine?
The typhoid vaccine is recommended for almost all international travelers. You may need the vaccine if they will be visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
The vaccine is highly recommended for regions with drug-resistant typhoid. This includes large portions Asia and Africa.
Where Does Typhoid Fever Occur?
The CDC recommends travelers headed to developing countries, where exposure to contaminated food or water is likely, receiving the typhoid vaccine. Over the past 10 years, travelers from the United States to Asia, Africa, and Latin America have been especially at risk.
Where Can I Get the Typhoid Vaccine?
Both typhoid vaccines are in-stock and available at all Passport Health travel clinics throughout North America. Meet with a travel medicine specialist today to discuss your travel plans and receive your vaccine.
Have Questions? Contact Us!
On This Page:
What Is Typhoid Fever?
What Is the Typhoid Fever Vaccine?
Do I Need a Typhoid Vaccine?
Who Should Get a Typhoid Vaccine?
Where Does Typhoid Fever Occur?
Where Can I Get the Typhoid Vaccine?
